Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Licence needed for work use Learn More
Parliament

Gordon Campbell | Parliament TV | Parliament Today | Video | Questions Of the Day | Search

 

Prime Minister Welcomes Lower Drinking Age

MEDIA STATEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE USE
Tuesday 30 November 1999

PRIME MINISTER WELCOMES LOWER DRINKING AGE

Prime Minister Jenny Shipley called on New Zealand to develop a culture of moderation as the lower drinking age comes into effect.

"The lower drinking age is a victory for commonsense. New Zealand 18 and 19-year-olds are responsible enough to drink alcohol in pubs and cafes, and I welcome our society's recognition of that," said Mrs Shipley.

Tomorrow, changes to New Zealand's liquor laws come into force. They include:
Drinking age lowered to 18 years; Sunday trading; Tougher penalties for traders caught selling to underage drinkers, and, instant fines for people underage caught drinking.

"I have personally supported lowering the drinking age from 20 to 18 years with two conditions – that photo id be used for proof of age, and that much stronger penalties were introduced.

"New Zealand must also work hard to change attitudes to alcohol consumption, with a move towards responsible and moderate drinking. 18 and 19 year olds must be encouraged to drink safely."

Mrs Shipley praised the Alcohol Liquor Advisory Council and the Hospitality Association for encouraging industry responsibility since the Parliament passed the law, particularly establishing the 18+ id card.

"I am pleased that industry had taken a strong line: No card no service. Bar operators should now be able to verify the age of drinkers with more confidence so that minors are not served.

"Families must also take more responsibility in controlling their children's access to alcohol. Parents must also share the responsibility of knowing where their young people are in the early hours of the morning.

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading

"We must do so based on strong values of personal responsibility and a confidence in the type of society we are able to develop into.

"I am pleased that New Zealand has taken the opportunity to challenge society's attitudes to drinking. We now look to 18 and 19 year olds to prove that we have made the right decision for them. The ball's in their court. I encourage them not to let us down," Mrs Shipley said.

ENDS

© Scoop Media

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading
 
 
 
Parliament Headlines | Politics Headlines | Regional Headlines

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

LATEST HEADLINES

  • PARLIAMENT
  • POLITICS
  • REGIONAL
 
 

Featured News Channels


 
 
 
 

Join Our Free Newsletter

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.